Italki, the online language portal, has spilled the beans on Europe's top-kept secrets for globetrotters - and you'll never guess which city tops the list. For holidaymakers keen on sampling authentic local cuisine, a study reveals a surprising gourmet paradise that remains under the radar for most .
Iker Uriarte, head of marketing for Italki Europe, emphasised the importance of cultural immersion and conversation with locals as keys to uncovering a city's best and most tasty culinary delights. He offered wise advice to travellers: "Before you leave, take some time to get familiar with the culture and history of your destination.
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"Learning about these aspects beforehand can elevate your travel experience and help you better understand where you're visiting."
He further advised: "When it comes to truly immersing yourself in a city's culture, there's no better guide than a local resident. Locals are the people who know every nook and cranny of the city."
Topping the Italki list with a jaw-dropping 1,608 eateries is none other than Valletta - Malta's sun-kissed capital isn't just a feast for the eyes, but also a banquet for the taste buds.
Valletta doesn't only charm with its balmy climate and sweeping sea vistas; according to the Italki survey, it prides itself on containing an overwhelming number of high-quality restaurants, almost 1,300 rating four stars or above.
Veggie vacationers, take note: Valletta caters to plant-based palates too, boasting a remarkable 744 establishments dedicated to vegetarian fare.
Sintra, a tranquil municipality in western Portugal, is another top recommendation for a gastronomic European city break without the masses.
Just a 40-minute drive from Lisbon, Italki reveals that Sintra boasts 1,928 eateries, with 333 specialising in vegetarian cuisine, reports .
Moreover, 1,215 of these restaurants have earned four or more stars, and 11 are Michelin-starred, making them an ideal spot for a memorable dining experience.
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